Rhenen: All destinations, advice & information for your holidays!
Directly on the Rhine lies Rhenen, named after the river, in the Dutch province of Utrecht. The small town has around 20,000 inhabitants and, with its rural location, is an attractive starting point for nature-oriented excursions in the heart of the Netherlands. Not far away is the De Hoge Veluwe National Park, among other things.
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Rhenen - Must-see attractions
Ouwehands Zoo
In the first decades of its existence, Ouwehands Zoo faced great difficulties. During World War II, the zoo lost many animals. In 2000, the zoo was bought by the owner of the most widely circulated Dutch newspaper, De Telegraaf. Within a few years, new animal enclosures were created, and elephants, white lions, and pandas were added to the animal collection. Children especially enjoy a visit to Ouwehands Dierenpark. A highlight is the sea lion show, where one can admire the cute animals.
Cunerakerk
As early as the 11th century, the first house of worship was located at the site of today's church. The Cunerakerk was not built until the 15th century and was subsequently expanded with its imposing tower. It is open to visitors and invites them to services. The interior of the Cunerakerk is rich in decorations influenced by the Renaissance style. Particularly impressive is the carved choir stalls from the year 1570. The organ, on the other hand, is comparatively modern and enchants you with its special sounds.
Kwintelooyen
Kwintelooyen is located in the Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park and is an ideal place for excursions around Rhenen. Visitors can explore valleys and forests on well-marked paths. The hiking area offers routes of varying lengths for all difficulty levels and some mountain biking trails. Kwintelooyen was once an archaeological site. Some of the oldest finds in the Netherlands were discovered here, including a flint from 180,000 BC and other items from the Ice Age. Nature lovers appreciate the diverse flora and fauna.
Grebbeberg Honorary Cemetery
During the Battle of Grebbeberg in May 1940, thousands of Dutch soldiers fell. The Grebbe Line was supposed to keep the Wehrmacht at bay, but this defensive line was inadequately maintained. Just a few days later, the Netherlands had capitulated. Today, the honorary cemetery on Grebbeberg is one of the most significant sights in the province of Utrecht. The cemetery houses an information center that reports on the Battle of Rhenen. In endless rows, the white tombstones stand close together.
Prattenburg Estate
For hikers, cyclists, and walkers, the Prattenburg estate offers a varied landscape. Mysterious forest paths alternate with open fields and waters with bridges. An adventure trail and a jogging track invite visitors to explore. Clear, well-marked hiking trails lead through the idyllic nature of the estate. Beautiful viewpoints with benches offer opportunities to pause along the way. While walking, one repeatedly catches glimpses of the magnificent castle of the estate through the trees.
Blue room
Wide meadows, forests, and numerous bodies of water characterize the nature reserve located by the river. From the Grebbeberg, where there is a viewpoint, visitors can overlook the blue and green. In this idyllic landscape, numerous bird species nest. Many hiking trails run through the nature reserve. Sturdy footwear is recommended, as the paths can be muddy in some places. Dogs must stay at home to avoid endangering the wildlife living here. The red tower of the historic brick factory is a nice hiking destination.